Jadeja becomes the 5th highest wicket-taker for India in Tests

Mumbai, Nov 1 (UNI) Ravindra Jadeja on Friday achieved a major milestone in his cricket career by becoming India’s fifth highest wicket-taker in Test matches with 312 wickets on day one in the third Test against New Zealand in Mumbai.

Jadeja removed Will Young, Tom Blundell and Glenn Phillips in the second session on Friday to move up the list. He followed it up with the wickets of Ish Sodhi and Matt Henry to claim his 14th Test haul of five wickets.

By surpassing Zaheer Khan and Ishant Sharma, both of whom finished their careers with 311 Test wickets, Jadeja has cemented his place among India’s elite bowlers.

This achievement places him in distinguished company, alongside legendary bowlers such as Anil Kumble, India’s all-time greatest wicket-taker with 619 Test dismissals; Ravichandran Ashwin, Jadeja’s current spin partner with 533 wickets; Kapil Dev, the iconic all-rounder with 434; and Harbhajan Singh, with 417.

Jadeja’s rise up the rankings underlines his adaptability and value as a consistent all-rounder. Initially known for his prowess in limited-overs cricket, he transformed his game to thrive in Test cricket, where his orthodox left-arm spin became a potent force.

His ability to control runs while consistently taking wickets, especially on subcontinental pitches, has made him an indispensable part of India’s bowling attack. Jadeja’s partnership with Ashwin has created a formidable spin duo, especially effective on home soil, often dismantling visiting batting line-ups.

Besides taking wickets, Jadeja’s sharp fielding and reliable batting have added depth to his role in the team. His knack for breakthroughs at critical times keeps India competitive even under challenging circumstances. Now, at the age of 35, Jadeja still has time to challenge Harbhajan’s 417 wickets and possibly Kapil Dev’s 434, further cementing his legacy in Indian cricket.

Jadeja’s journey from Saurashtra to becoming one of India’s most reliable Test players reflects his resilience, adaptability and relentless pursuit of excellence. His achievements have resonated with fans around the world, who have watched him evolve into a stalwart of the game.

With every wicket, he not only increases his position in the record books but also strengthens his position in the hearts of cricket lovers, symbolizing the heights that can be achieved through dedication and skill. As he continues his career, fans are eagerly anticipating the records he may yet break and the legacy he will undoubtedly leave behind in Indian cricket.

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